Partnership for Ontario Director Retires

CANANDAIGUA — The Partnership for Ontario County announces the retirement of its Executive Director, Bonnie Ross, effective October 15.

Ross first joined the Partnership in 2013. Under her tenure, the organization has grown 140 percent. Today it serves more than 40 percent of the youth under the age of 18 and their families. Its nine programs are dedicated to creating and cultivating positive social change for the residents of Ontario County.

“It’s been a privilege to work with my colleagues and the community to bring critical programs and services to the community,’ said Ross. “This is a county that truly cares about its citizens and works tirelessly to ensure the positive future of its residents.”

The Partnership, a system of care organization, has served Ontario County as an independent not for profit since 1998. Programs under its umbrella include Ontario County Youth Court, Child Advocacy Center of the Finger Lakes, Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Ontario County, Family Support Centers, Community Support Center, Journey Through Loss, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Epic Zone (Youth Clubhouse) and the Suicide Prevention Coalition.

The Partnership serves also as the fiscal agent for Nowhere to Go an initiative to work with the unsheltered, or homeless.

Partnership Board President and Ontario County Sheriff Philip Povero applauded Ross for her vision, leadership and inspiration.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to sincerely thank Bonnie for her years of professional and progressive leadership of the Partnership,” said Povero. “Under her guidance, the Partnership has had a positive influence on the lives of thousands of Ontario County residents.

“Bonnie developed a strong vision for Ontario County where all people are hopeful, engaged and thriving,” said Povero. “She inspired those of us working with her to embrace that vision.”

Ross’ executive level support of Ontario County Youth Court allowed hundreds of teen to be held accountable by their peers for school violations, Povero said. And the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Ontario County has lead the effort to keep thousands of pounds of medications from being misused and sold on the street.

“I’m deeply grateful for the dedication, compassion, and commitment of the Partnership Board of Directors and Team, and for the honor and opportunity to have served the community,” said Ross.

The former executive director plans to continue her enthusiastic support of the Partnership’s work in several volunteer roles.